The pancreas is a long, flat gland that is located behind the stomach and below the liver. The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes that help digest fats, carbohydrates and proteins. The pancreas also releases insulin and glucagon, which are hormones that help regulate levels of blood glucose. Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. Pancreatitis may be acute or chronic. Patients with pancreatitis should consume certain foods because the pancreas does not release enough digestive enzymes.
Low-Fat Diets
Pancreatitis decreases the digestion of fatty meals such as fried foods, whole milk, steak, bacon, hot dogs, bacon, butter and margarine. Patients with pancreatitis should avoid consuming such fatty meals. Patients who consume fatty foods end up with foul-smelling fatty stool because their bodies are unable to digest and absorb fats and oils.
High-Protein and High-Calorie Diets
Patients with pancreatitis should consume high-protein and high-calorie foods. Pancreatitis causes malnutrition and weight loss due to reduced digestion and absorption of nutrients. Patients should consume high-calorie foods such as white bread, rice, pasta, macaroni, beans and cereals. High-protein foods such as milk, cheese, butter, soy milk, soy beans, fish, poultry and lean meat also help patients gain lean muscle.
Whole Grains, Fruits and Vegetables
Patients with pancreatitis should consume foods containing whole grains in order to maintain a healthy digestive system. Patients with pancreatitis are at high risk for diabetes because their bodies do not produce enough insulin. Whole grain foods help maintain low blood glucose levels. Patients should also consume plenty of fruits and vegetables which contain antioxidants and vitamins that heal and prevent pancreatitis.
